By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Kyle Van Noy has been rewarded for his latest monster game. The Patriots linebacker is the AFC’s Defensive Player of the Week after a dominating performance in a 16-10 win over the Buffalo Bills.
The Patriots especially needed Van Noy to step up in the absence of Dont’a Hightower, and he delivered. Van Noy racked up eight tackles, one tackle for loss, two sacks, three quarterback hits, and two forced fumbles. His last hit on Bills QB Matt Barkley popped the football up in the air, where it landed in the hands of Jamie Collins for a game-clinching interception.
This marks the second straight week that a Patriots player earned a weekly AFC honor. Punter Jake Bailey earned AFC Special Teams Player of the Week after the Patriots’ 30-14 win over the Jets.
It’s the first time Van Noy has earned defensive player of the week honors and the first time a Patriot received the award since Hightower in Week 6 of the 2016 season. The award is a reflection of the Patriots’ dominant start the season on defense and considerable depth compared to prior years.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.